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CarComplaints.com Notes: If you're looking for a vehicle with one of the most complained about transmission on the road, look no further than the 2001-2003 Toyota RAV4.

In 2001 Toyota completely redesigned the popular SUV. While some enjoyed the new look, they did not enjoy the harsh shifting, jumping from gear-to-gear and eventual transmission failure that cost owners well over $3,000 to fix. The problem stems from a malfunctioning Electronic Control Module (ECM).

Consumer outrage coupled with pressure from different agencies led Toyota to extend the warranty nationwide back in 2010. The previous power train warranty only covered 5 years/60,000 miles, while the extended warranty now covers the transmission and ECM for 10 years/150,000 miles. Toyota also pledged to reimburse any owners who had previously paid for repairs, if they had "proper proof". Good luck collecting on that one.

8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$600
Average Mileage:
55,000 miles
Total Complaints:
2 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. replaced air/fuel sensor and oxygen sensor (1 reports)
  2. replaced the oxygen sensor (1 reports)
2001 Toyota RAV4 fuel system problems

fuel system problem

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2001 Toyota RAV4 Owner Comments

problem #2

Jun 012005

RAV4 L 2.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 36,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The check engine light came on. We took it to the dealer and they replaced the oxygen sensor under the warranty. This was the first occurrence of a problem that would continue for years.

- Marvin Dean 4., Sandston, VA, US

problem #1

Jan 192009

RAV4 L 2.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 74,000 miles

Check engine light came on. Took it to the dealer and was told that the air/fuel sensor needed replacement. I was told that the part costs $252.00 and labor is $95.00. Went online to Mechanicsville Toyota's website (where we took the car to be fixed) and foud the same part for $149.09. While waiting for the car to be fixed, I was called and told that the fourth sensor needed to be replaced. The Internet price for this sensor is $105.00 and again the labor cost is $95.00. I was also warned that when trying to remove the old sensor, it may be stuck and other parts would need to be replaced. That didn't happen, but I will never use Mechanicsville Toyota again and I will never again buy a Toyota.

- Marvin Dean 4., Sandston, VA, US

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